A concerning syphilis outbreak is sweeping across East Asia, with Japan, Taiwan (China), and South Korea reporting significant increases in cases. Japan, in particular, has recorded over 13,000 infections annually for the 4th consecutive year, with young demographics being the primary focus of the surge. The Japan National Health Crisis Management Agency reported 13,085 syphilis cases from the beginning of the year to mid-12/2025. This marks a sharp increase observed since the Covid-19 pandemic, with cases doubling in just two years, rising from 6,619 in 2020 to 13,220 in 2022, and maintaining record-high levels since.
Japanese health officials attribute the rise to increased unsafe sexual contact with strangers, facilitated by easier connections through social media and dating applications. Epidemiological data indicates men account for two-thirds of all infections across all age groups. Notably, over 50% of female patients are in their 20s.
Similar to Japan, Taiwan (China) is also experiencing a worrying increase among young people, even as other sexually transmitted infections such as HIV and gonorrhea show a downward trend. The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported 9,072 syphilis cases in the first 11 months of 2025. While the total number of cases saw a slight 2% increase compared to the previous year, the infection rate among adolescents aged 15-24 surged by 9%. To address this, Lin Ming-cheng, a representative from the Taiwan CDC, stated that the government plans to expand free rapid testing sites for individuals under 24 from 18 to 79 facilities in 2026. Hospitals are also offering anonymous counseling services to encourage young people to proactively seek screening.
In South Korea, reported figures soared after authorities shifted from "sample testing" to a "comprehensive surveillance" mechanism in 2024. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) recorded 2,790 new infections last year, with nearly 60% of patients in their 20s and 30s, reflecting a clear trend of the disease affecting younger demographics.
Syphilis, caused by the Treponema pallidum spirochete, is primarily a sexually transmitted infection that progresses through multiple stages. The disease typically begins with painless sores around the genitals. Without early treatment, the bacteria can spread through the bloodstream, causing rashes, and over many years, potentially damage the central nervous system, heart, eyes, and joints. It can also transmit from mother to child, leading to dangerous congenital syphilis in newborns.
Binh Minh (According to Maeil Business Newspaper, Focus Taiwan)
